Chief Wahoo protester stole money meant for Native Americans

'He took tens of thousands of dollars designated for mental health and wellness programs'

Published: 05/17/2018 at 11:52 PM

(Fox News) A Cleveland man known for his opposition to the Cleveland Indians’ “Chief Wahoo” mascot has admitted to stealing more than $77,000 in federal grant money meant to help Native Americans, federal prosecutors said Wednesday.

Robert Roche, 71, pleaded guilty to two counts of theft from programs receiving federal funds.

According to prosecutors, Roche and consultant Craig McGuire conspired to divert money from the American Indian Education Center (AIEC) in suburban Parma, where Roche served as executive director.